B. INFORMATION COLLECTION, ANALYSIS AND EXCHANGE:

The debate
centered on the type of information to be collected: basic
information (data-banks) or applied information (needed in
combatting desertification) such as early-warning systems. There
was consensus that the information should not be expensive or
elitist. Canada suggested that the information respond to questions
about specific localities (monitoring) with a minimum data set for
answering specific questions. It should also cover the
socio-economic aspects. India expressed concern that the
requirements of the developing countries, as stipulated in the
document, would require considerable funding. Morocco stressed the
need for all countries suffering from desertification to have the
requisite instruments to monitor and assess desertification. There
is need to establish five to ten parameters to be collected
periodically as a measure for the success of the programmes. UNESCO
proposed that the process tap into UNDP's Sustainable Development
Network. The role of coordination should not be centralized in one
institution. Information collected should not just be exchanged
between the parties but with everyone who needs it. It is also
necessary to identify who will provide data and to consult with the
UN agencies on this issue. It was proposed that the Panel of
Experts identify information needs, intended uses, and existing
information at the local, national and regional levels. At the end
of the session, the Chair requested all the delegates to submit
their written comments.